Oz, Kentucky facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Oz, Kentucky
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Country | United States |
State | Kentucky |
County | McCreary |
Elevation | 794 ft (242 m) |
Time zone | UTC-6 (Central (CST)) |
• Summer (DST) | UTC-5 (CST) |
GNIS feature ID | 514406 |
Oz is a small, quiet place located in McCreary County, Kentucky, in the United States. It is known as an "unincorporated community" and historically as a "coal town." This means it's a small settlement that doesn't have its own local government, and its past is closely linked to the coal mining industry.
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What is an Unincorporated Community?
An unincorporated community is a place where people live together, but it's not officially a city or town. It doesn't have its own mayor or city council. Instead, it's usually governed by the larger county it's a part of. For Oz, this means McCreary County handles things like roads and public services.
How Unincorporated Communities Work
- Local Services: Services like police, fire, and schools are often managed by the county government.
- No Local Taxes: Residents typically pay county taxes, not specific city taxes.
- Flexibility: These communities can grow or change without needing to follow strict city rules.
Oz as a Coal Town
Oz was once a "coal town." This term describes a community that grew up around a coal mine. Many people who lived in Oz likely worked in the mines or in businesses that supported the mining industry. Coal towns were very common in places like Kentucky, where coal was a major natural resource.
Life in a Coal Town
- Mining Jobs: Most adults worked in the coal mines, digging for coal.
- Company Stores: Sometimes, the mining company owned the houses and stores in the town.
- Community Spirit: People in coal towns often had strong community bonds because their lives were so connected to the mines.
Where is Oz Located?
Oz is found in the state of Kentucky, which is in the southeastern part of the United States. More specifically, it's in McCreary County. The area around Oz is known for its natural beauty and its history of mining.
Geographic Details
- Elevation: Oz is about 794 feet (242 meters) above sea level.
- Coordinates: You can find Oz on a map using its coordinates: 36°42′23″N 84°34′03″W / 36.70639°N 84.56750°W.